This shadow briefing report describes some of the issues and inequities faced by of women who use drugs in Portugal. It was prepared by Consumidores Associados Sobrevivem Organizados (CASO), Grupo de Ativistas em Tratamentos (GAT) and the Women and Harm Reduction International Network (WHRIN), drawing also on original research conducted by CASO and GAT. Focus group discussions were conducted on 5th and 6th May, 2022 with 19 women who use drugs in Porto and Lisbon.
The report includes information about institutionalized discrimination and violations of the rights of women who use drugs including those associated with gender-based violence, access to health, parental custody rights, hyper-incarceration and sexual and reproductive health rights. Urgent steps must be taken to improve equity and access to services and safety for women who use drugs in Portugal.
